ICC to award grants for improvements near CN/EJ&E crossings

The Illinois Commerce Commission will accept proposals for grants to assist with construction projects or programs aimed at improving conditions at or near railroad crossings in communities, counties and townships affected by Canadian National Railway Company's acquisition of the Elgin Joliet & Eastern Railway. Applications for grants are due by 1 p.m. April 1, 2011. Applicants must submit proposals for construction projects or programs to mitigate the impact of increased rail traffic upon area residents, in compliance with 49 CFR 262. Eligible projects could include, but are not limited to, right-of-way fencing, noise abatement walls, noise abatement berms and landscaping. The ICC's rail safety staff will serve as project managers and will work with the Federal Railroad Administration and the communities. Proposals selected for funding will be announced on or after May 1, 2011. The grants will be awarded for projects to be implemented between June 1, 2011 and December 31, 2012.